How To Select the Right Gutters for Your Home
Take the following factors into account when selecting new gutters for your home.
Gutter Style
Sectional gutters come in fixed-length pieces that connect together to form your home's gutter system. There is a seam where each piece joins together, and your gutter professional will apply a waterproof sealant to prevent leaks.
Seamless gutters, on the other hand, are custom-built from a single piece of material and require minimal sealing at corners and around downspouts. These are more expensive but less likely to leak than section gutters.
Sectional and seamless gutters are both sold in two main styles:
- K-style gutters:These gutters are the most common style available. The shape resembles crown molding when seen from the front and the letter K when seen from the side. K-style gutters are easier to install than half-round gutters.
- Half-round gutters:Half-round gutters are a popular choice for historic homes due to their attractive, rustic appearance. The half-cylinder shape allows for ample water-carrying capacity but is prone to debris accumulation.
Gutter Size
Gutters are available in various sizes. The most common are 5-, 6-, and 7-inch gutters. Five-inch gutters are the standard option for most homes. A larger gutter, however, can handle heavier rainfall and is best for homes with steeply pitched roofs.
Gutter Cost
Seamless gutters are more expensive than traditional sectional designs. You should also expect to pay more for half-round gutters due to the more involved installation process. Larger gutters require more materials, which will reflect in your total cost.
How Much Does Gutter Installation Cost?
Your gutter installation cost depends on multiple factors, but expect to pay around $10 per linear foot for standard aluminum gutters.* The total installation cost averages around $1,150, but you may pay up to $8,000 for a large home. A professional gutter installation service typically needs to inspect your home's exterior before providing an estimate.
Some of the cost factors for gutter installation include these:
- Gutter design and style
- Gutter material
- Gutter size
- Home accessibility (number of stories)
- Labor costs
- Linear footage of your home's roof
- Type of installation (new installation or replacement)
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FAQ's About Gutter Companies Near Me
What size gutters should I choose for my home?
Your gutter installation professional can help you choose the right size gutters for your home based on the local climate and your roof's pitch. Five-inch gutters are standard for most homes.
Do gutters come in different colors?
Many gutter companies offer several color options to help match your home's aesthetic. Keep in mind that some gutter materials, such as copper, will not be available in any color except the natural look of the material.
Which gutter material holds up best over time?
Copper gutters naturally resist corrosion and algae buildup and tend to hold up well over time. Other metals, such as galvanized steel and aluminum, are also durable gutter options. Vinyl gutters are a cheaper option but may be susceptible to warpage and other damage.
Can I install gutters myself?
Traditional, or sectional, gutters are often available for DIY installation through local retailers. Seamless gutters need to be installed by a professional. To install gutters yourself, you will need to understand how to pitch the gutter system, fasten it to your home's fascia board, and seal the seams. You also need to be comfortable working from a ladder.
What type of gutter guard is the best?
Micro-mesh gutter guards are the best choice for many homeowners. These gutter guards can filter large and small debris and are easy to clean when you conduct routine gutter maintenance.
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